As someone who has attended quite a few conventions in my time, I feel I’ve become a bit spoiled in terms of what I expect from cons. It’s like going to Disney World every year and then going to Six Flags - there is no comparison and the latter always feels like kind of a letdown. I’ve been to San Diego Comic Con multiple times and bigger conventions like Star Wars Celebration so I have a certain expectation when I go to a con. That being said, I’ll be the first to admit my perception of the first St. Louis Comic Con was a bit jaded. But that has all changed with the convention’s triumphant return.

First of all the size of the convention has nearly doubled making the overall experience much more pleasant. Everything is spread out and you actually get the breathing room that so many other conventions lack. The extra space also allows for more booths and a greater selection of wares as well as a bigger Artist Alley. While the show is still utilizing the convention space from last year for registration, a snack area, the Photo Ops, and large booths from the St. Louis Rams and an interactive experience called Zombie Zone, the majority of the show is actually in the Edward Jones Dome where the St Louis Rams play.

A highlight of the programming for Friday, the opening day, was a presentation on the main stage featuring Adam West and Burt Ward. To celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Batman and to open the show, the St.Louis Mayor Francis Slay presented the dynamic duo a certificate naming April 4th Batman and Robin day. Along with cutting a ceremonial ribbon, the two were presented with personalized Rams jerseys while being heckled by St. Louis Cardinals mascot Fredbird.

If you are coming to the convention for the celebrities you will not be disappointed as the line-up of guests this year is outstanding. Based on all the Whovians I saw roaming around the clear favorites are Matt Smith and Karen Gillan from Dr. Who, but the only attendee with sold-out tickets for a day is Nathan Fillion. Firefly fans won’t be disappointed with Fillion joined by Alan Tudyk (who also voiced characters in Disney films Frozen and Wreck-It Ralph), Adam Ballwin, and Summer Glau. Walking Dead fans can meet both Emily Kinney (Beth) and Jon Bernthal (Shane). Also attending are pop-culture celebs like Eliza Dushku, Jason David Frank, Ralph Macchio, Sean Astin, and more.

All in all if you’ve never been to a convention before, Wizard World is a great place to start. Offering a variety of activities, entertainment, and shopping experiences to appeal to just about anyone. It’s a fun time and a great way to spend a day with the family and friends.